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In the ancient village of Kansari in Khambhat, a white-colored idol, standing at a modest 33 cms in height, graces the sanctum in the Padmasana posture. This village, once teeming with a vibrant Jain population, housed numerous Jain temples, including the enchanting and revered temple of Shri Bheedbhanjan Parshvanath. The idol within, captivating, incomparable, and possessing great influence, was known as Bheedbhanjan Parshwanath. However, as the Jain populace dwindled over time, the divine idol was relocated to Khambhat.
In its new abode in Kharvada, Khambhat, the idol found sanctuary in a newly constructed temple and adopted the name "Kansari Parshwanath," paying homage to its origin. Despite the change in location, the ancient and influential nature of the idol persisted. Devotees believed that fervent worship of Kansari Parshvanath could fulfill their deepest desires, a tradition upheld for centuries in Kansari as Bheedbhanjan Parshwanath and continued in Khambhat.
The city of Khambhat, renowned as a bustling port in Gujarat, boasts more than 60 temples, with Kharvada alone hosting seven. Well-connected by rail and road to other cities in Gujarat, Khambhat welcomes pilgrims with Dharamshala and Bhojanshala facilities. The city also houses numerous Gyan Bhandaars, repositories of ancient books and scriptures.
References to Kansari Parshwanath echo in various scriptures such as "Shri Vijaydev Suri Raas," "365 Shri Parshwa Jin Naammala," "Shri Sankheswar Parshwanath Chaand," and others. The divine presence of Shri Kansari Parshwanath extends beyond Khambhat, finding recognition in the Kalikund Parshwanath temple in Santacruz, Mumbai.
The guardianship of this sacred space lies with the Shri Kansari Parshwanath Shwetambar Jain Temple, nestled in Kharvada, with contact information for seekers of spiritual solace.
